JOHNNY CASH - INTIMATE CASH POSSESSIONS FOR SALE

Late country star JOHNNY CASH and his wife JUNE CARTER's intimate possessions are being sold at New York auction house SOTHEBY'S.

More than 650 items belonging to the HURT singer - including handwritten lyrics, photos, vintage clothing and 50 musical instruments, including a guitar estimated to be worth $15,000 (GBP8,500) - are being sold from today (14SEP04) until Thursday (16SEP04).

LEILA DUNBAR of Sotheby's Collectibles Department is amazed the collection includes his car, seven of his GRAMMY awards and famous jewellery.

Dunbar says, "He and June Carter Cash are true American icons, and this sale presents countless opportunities for collectors as well as fans of the Man in Black.

"His influence extended beyond any specific genre with his ability to blend the lines between country, folk, gospel, rock and pop."

Cash died last September (03), just four months after his wife, June.